In a new study called “Pretty Scary 2: Unmasking Toxic Chemicals in Kids’ Makeup,” researchers found that nearly half the Halloween products they tested contained heavy metals, such as lead, and roughly 20 percent contained potentially harmful chemicals, such as formaldehyde.

The Coalition for a Safe and Healthy Connecticut was one of the agencies involved, and coalition coordinator Anne Hulick said she was surprised at some of the study results.

“We were shocked at the range of chemicals, and at how many products contain them,” said Hulick, also state director for Clean Water Action.

She said she was particularly startled by the presence of lead in children’s Halloween makeup. Lead-based paint was banned for use in housing in 1978, and eradicating lead poisoning is a goal of many health agencies.

It’s been linked to learning disabilities, attention deficits and other issues.